Senior IP Network Specialist

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Retirement plan

Professional development

Nelspruit facility

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a leading telecommunications company in Nelspruit, is seeking a Senior IP Network Specialist to join its core network operations team on-site. You will manage, maintain, and troubleshoot a large IP network, optimize routing, and ensure security and performance.

The role requires 7+ years of IP networking experience, CCNP/JNCIP desirable, and hands-on Cisco/Juniper hardware, with strong TCP/IP, BGP/OSPF/EIGRP knowledge.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in IP network engineering and operations.
• In-depth knowledge of TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), and switching technologies.
• CCNP, JNCIP or equivalent certifications are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Manage, maintain, and troubleshoot complex IP networks, including routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers.
• Configure and optimize routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP.
• Implement and manage network security policies and solutions, including VPNs and access control lists.
• Monitor network performance using various tools and implement enhancements to ensure optimal operation.
• Respond to network incidents and outages, performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions.
• Participate in network design and capacity planning activities.
• Develop and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and standard operating procedures.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support new service deployments and network upgrades.
• Stay current with emerging IP networking technologies and industry best practices.
• Provide technical support and guidance to junior network engineers.

Skills

IP routing

BGP

OSPF

EIGRP

IPv4/IPv6

Network security

Firewall

VPNs

Troubleshooting

Wireshark

SolarWinds

CCNP

JNCIP

Automation tools

Cisco devices

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

SolarWinds

Wireshark

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading telecommunications company located in Nelspruit , is seeking a highly experienced Senior IP Network Specialist to join their core network operations team. This critical on-site role is responsible for the management, maintenance, and troubleshooting of our extensive IP network infrastructure, ensuring its reliability, performance, and security. You will be working within a team of skilled professionals in our Nelspruit facility, contributing to the stability of our network services. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in IP routing and switching protocols, network security, and performance optimization. You will be involved in the deployment of new network services and the resolution of complex technical issues. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned IP networking professional to make a significant contribution to a key player in the Mpumalanga region's telecommunications landscape.

Key Responsibilities

Manage, maintain, and troubleshoot complex IP networks, including routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers. Configure and optimize routing protocols such as BGP, OSPF, and EIGRP. Implement and manage network security policies and solutions, including VPNs and access control lists. Monitor network performance using various tools and implement enhancements to ensure optimal operation. Respond to network incidents and outages, performing root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions. Participate in network design and capacity planning activities. Develop and maintain network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and standard operating procedures. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support new service deployments and network upgrades. Stay current with emerging IP networking technologies and industry best practices. Provide technical support and guidance to junior network engineers.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field. Minimum of 7 years of experience in IP network engineering and operations. In-depth knowledge of TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), and switching technologies. Hands-on experience with network hardware from major vendors (e.g., Cisco, Juniper). Proficiency in network security principles and technologies (firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs). Experience with network monitoring and analysis tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Wireshark). Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with a methodical approach. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team. Relevant certifications such as CCNP, JNCIP, or equivalent are highly desirable. Experience with network automation tools is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• An annual bonus is awarded based on performance.
• Employees are enrolled in a retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• We provide opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and industry certifications.
• This position is based at our Nelspruit facility, offering a stable and collaborative work environment.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays, is provided.
• You will have access to a robust network infrastructure and cutting-edge tools.
• This role offers the chance to work on critical network infrastructure within the vibrant Mpumalanga region.